Children w/bipolar disorder... meds?

UsedToBeHusky · January 2012

I know it is not very common for children to present with bipolar, but I think it could be a possiblity for my child. Her father has it, and sometimes her behavior can become a bit uncontrollable. I have had her in therapy with a psychologist for 5 years now, but even though she sometimes has a good streak, inevitably, she breaks under pressure, and she loses it. I have always been very opposed to psychiatric meds, but I do understand that there are some who need it. I am just not sure what to do. I won't her to develop coping skills, but at the same time, I can't sit back and watch her destroy her future with bad behavior. She is getting older, and I fear that she might act out and the school might get the police involved.

I am looking for opinions here. This is a very sensitive subject, and I am a single mother at her wit's end. Please don't criticize my parenting. All I am looking for is people's opinions on psychiatric meds and giving them to children. I would really love to hear from anyone with experience with children who have bipolar disorder. That would be extremely helpful.

Thanks in advance.

sunnyday789 · January 2012

I think it's wise for you to seek help as you are doing as. It sounds like your daughter is in her teens? I would suggest you need to get another opinion from a professional. I know adults who are bipolar but went undiagnosed for a long time and behaviour manifested in addictions (trying to get the high back after they went into a deprsessive phase) and other risky/destructive behaviours. But it could something else and it's not good to label prematurely.

Have you considered getting help from a psychiatrist who can perhaps more accurately diagnose as well prescribe medications along with provision of therapy? Also, may be benficial for you get get some guidance/support as a parent (I don't say this to judge your parenting but rather as someone who has lived with people with mental illness)

UsedToBeHusky · January 2012

She is only 8.

sunnyday789 · January 2012

I'm not sure but I think that early for a diagnosis of bipolar. But still , I'd suggest seeking another opinion.

cherokeetracey · January 2012

a person can be diagnosed with bipolar at any age. look at me lol, i was diagnosed with it last year at the age of 37. bipolar can present in children as young as 5, so its not uncommon.
best thing to do is to keep pestering your dr about her and ask for an opinion from a physcatrist.

tuffytuffy1 · January 2012

What does her therapist think? Did she offer a diagnosis? I personally would be very surprised if she had bipolar disorder at such a young age. In women, I believe it usually manifests itself later in life, like in your 20's or 30's, but I may be confusing that with schizophrenia.

If I were you, I would request a referral for a neuropsychological comprehensive evaluation where they can test her for all sorts of impairments. These evaluations usually are quite involved and are conducted over the course of days. You should also reach out to your daughter's school psychologist and see if they can shadow her in the classroom, talk to her, etc.

UsedToBeHusky · January 2012

What does her therapist think? Did she offer a diagnosis? I personally would be very surprised if she had bipolar disorder at such a young age. In women, I believe it usually manifests itself later in life, like in your 20's or 30's, but I may be confusing that with schizophrenia.

If I were you, I would request a referral for a neuropsychological comprehensive evaluation where they can test her for all sorts of impairments. These evaluations usually are quite involved and are conducted over the course of days. You should also reach out to your daughter's school psychologist and see if they can shadow her in the classroom, talk to her, etc.

Thanks Tuffy.

I have gone that route with the schools and some things have improved, but she is still having issues functioning at school and even sometimes at home. She had a meltdown last night over nothing.

oregonzoo · July 2012

There was this great documentary I watched on the issue... I'll let you know what it was when i look at my Netflix tonight.

there is quite a bit of contreversy on this issue, and no matter what I'd want a second or even third opinion.

UsedToBeHusky · July 2012

There was this great documentary I watched on the issue... I'll let you know what it was when i look at my Netflix tonight.

there is quite a bit of contreversy on this issue, and no matter what I'd want a second or even third opinion.

I've been dealing with this for over 5 years. Believe me... I've already gotten second and third opinions. But thanks anyway.

Meghan0116 · July 2012

I believe in psychotropic medication and think if the diagnosis is correct, it sometimes is the only treatment, that and therapy. I am sorry you are having such a difficult time but I think you are doing great with seeking help.

I agree with the posts above about having her evaluated for bipolar. She is young but it is possible to get the diagnosis. You may even want to seek out a support group for parents with children who have behavioral issues.

urfitnesspal2 · July 2012

Regardless of whether she is on med's or not she needs good coping\life skills. Focus on these and she will likely need few if any med's to do well. BTW- Best place to find those coping skills? - the words of Jesus

kayleesays · July 2012

My adopted (essentially) sister-in-law is six and while they can't confirm her bipolar because she is so young, it's obvious to every doctor she's ever been to. She has been on lithium and it initially turned her into a psychotic mess, but now her meds have been readjusted and she still takes a very low dose of lithium and has been doing well. She came from a really messed up home, so she has other issues as well. It's really hard, her meds have to be adjusted every once in awhile because they'll just stop working.

Children w/bipolar disorder... meds?

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